Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for aerial tree work

When climbing trees, chainsaw users should wear the following:

  • a safety helmet (AFAG recommends a mountaineering style helmet complying with BS EN 12492)
  • eye protection (complying with either BS EN 1731 or BS EN 166)
  • hearing protection (complying with BS EN 352)
  • suitable gloves appropriate to the task and subject to the operator's risk assessment
  • leg protection and groin protection (complying with BS EN 381-5). AFAG strongly recommends Type C leg protection for aerial work, because of the high all-round chainsaw cut protection. However, where wearing Type C is impractical (eg because of the higher risk of heat stress associated with it), it may be appropriate to use Type A, where justified by risk assessment.
  • protective boots with good grip and protective guarding at front vamp and instep (complying with BS EN ISO 20345)
  • non-snag outer clothing. The use of high-visibility clothing may also be appropriate

Further advice

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2026-09-22